Why do patients with kidney cancer experience swollen feet?

Jul 01, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

Because I have developed kidney cancer, I have some swelling in my feet. May I ask, why do kidney cancer patients experience foot swelling?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Possible causes of foot swelling in patients with kidney cancer include the following: 1. **Renal insufficiency:** Kidney cancer may damage kidney function and reduce glomerular filtration, leading to fluid retention, sodium retention, and edema, especially in the feet. 2. **Urinary tract obstruction:** When the flow of urine is blocked, hydronephrosis may develop, increasing pressure within the kidney and causing damage to the renal parenchyma and kidney function, which can lead to edema. 3. **Lower extremity venous thrombosis:** Patients with kidney cancer may require prolonged bed rest, which can lead to the formation of blood clots in the leg veins, obstructing venous return and causing foot swelling. 4. **Heart failure:** Advanced kidney cancer is often accompanied by complications such as hypertension, which may lead to heart failure and fluid retention in the body, including the feet. Foot swelling in patients with kidney cancer may have multiple causes, and diagnosis and treatment should be based on the patient's specific condition.